When the first big winter storm hit the California coastline, our family clapped for joy because it meant that the High Sierra’s were getting their first serious snowfall of the winter season. This past weekend, some parts of Lake Tahoe got as much as 2 feet of snow in one night.
Last year, Trekaroo sent out our Superoos to uncover which are the best ski resorts around the country for families. Lake Tahoe is California’s premier ski destination and one of our top picks for family-friendly ski destinations. It boasts epic scenery, world class ski resorts, proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area, comfortable ski conditions, lots of activities for kids, and good restaurants that are welcoming to families. Just about every ski resort in Lake Tahoe welcomes families with open arms because skiing and snowboarding are such wonderful sports that families can enjoy together. However, ski resorts are definitely not created equal. Depending on what’s important to your family here are our recommendations for the best ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area for snow lovin’ families.
Best All Around Family-Friendly Ski Resort – Heavenly Ski Resort
There are lots of reasons why Heavenly Ski Resort consistently gets raving reviews from Trekaroo families. This large ski resort with lots of intermediate runs families are able to ski together happily for a large part of the day. In addition, families with young children who are still learning to ski have lots of options for full day or half day ski school programs at Heavenly’s first class ski school. Heavenly’s Day Care offers care for wee ones as young as 2 months old in their CA licensed nursery. Heavenly Day Care even offers unique ski-play programs for 3 and 4 year olds who are ready to be eased onto the slopes but still mostly just want to free play. This excellent program allows young ones to experience skiing and snowboarding in an age appropriate way. We also loved the delicious on mountain dining options that offer heart warming favorites like burgers and chilli, but also healthy options like fresh salads and gourmet meals for those who like to dine well. Having dining areas littered throughout the vast mountain makes it easy for families to take frequent breaks and rendezvous for meals.
But, that’s not all, Heavenly Village and Adventure Peak offer lots of non-skiing activities from an extreme tubing hill, snow shoeing, ice-skating and snowmobiling, to a relaxing scenic gondola ride with epic views of Lake Tahoe. Trekaroo was also very impressed with the friendly and attentive staff at Heavenly. From parking lot attendants to ski instructors, everyone was friendly and eager to help families find their way around, stay safe and have an unforgettably happy day.
As if these are not enough of reasons for Heavenly to earn big kudos from Trekaroo families, Heavenly has struck it golden with us because they’ve found a way to provide all the bells and whistles of a world class ski resorts at a competitive price. One day lift tickets for the 2009/2010 season were $82/adult (2010/2011 lift ticket prices haven’t been announced yet). All other comparable ski resorts have lift tickets that ranged between at $71-83/adult. But their season pass tickets are a phenomenal deal. Read more about that below. The other activities at Heavenly aren’t particularly cheap though, but you can always be sure you are paying for a top notch experience.
Although Heavenly does not offer their own accommodation, there is a variety of family-friendly accommodation in South Lake Tahoe. Some like the the reasonably priced Embassy Suites are within walking distance of the Gondola. Timber Lodge by Marriott offers luxury accommodations steps from the Gondola.
Related:
- Reviews of Heavenly Ski Resort
- Reviews of Heavenly Ski School for Kids
- Reviews of Heavenly Day Care and Nursery
- Reviews of Heavenly Gondola Ride
- Kid-friendly Hotels in South Lake Tahoe
Best All Inclusive Ski Resort for Families – Squaw Valley
Squaw Valley is another favorite Ski Resort with Trekaroo Families. It’s probably the most expensive ski resort in Lake Tahoe, but Trekaroo families think you get exactly what you pay for. Squaw’s lodging is luxury all the way. You arrive at Squaw Village and you never have to leave. Upscale stores and restaurants abound. The staff at Squaw and their partner establishments located in Squaw Village sure seem to understand how welcome their guests Ski School is fully equipped to accommodate kids ages 3 and up at all levels of skiing and the facilities have fun play areas. The cable car ride up to High Camp is a big hit with families while High Camp offers stunning views of Squaw Valley, ice-skating, hot tubs and a heated pool. There is lots of space to build snow men for little ones who aren’t ready to hit the slopes up at high camp, white down at the base of the Cable Car, you’ll find a climbing wall and other amusements. All in all, Trekaroo families mostly agree that for the premium you pay to stay and ski at Squaw, all your needs as a family are very well met.
Related:
- Review of Squaw Ski Resort
- Review of Squaw Snowsports School
- Review of the Lodge at Squaw
- Review of the Village at Squaw (lodging)
- Review of Tubing at Squaw Valley
- Kid-friendly Weekend at Squaw
Best Value Kids Ski School – Alpine Meadows
Alpine Meadows Ski Resort is a smaller ski facility on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe. However, it runs an excellent Ski School Program for children. Trekaroo families love the more affordable prices for both their half and full day programs. Alpine is also less crowded, so it is likely that they can accommodate you even if you don’t have a previous reservation. Alpine Meadows offers ski school for children as young as 3 years old. Half day lessons are $113 and full day lessons are $143 which include lunch and all equipment rentals. It’s a deal when you compare the rates to some other good ski school programs in Lake Tahoe that will run you a bill at $200/day/child. Unfortunately, Alpine Meadows does not offer day care for younger kids or a ski-play program so you’ll have to figure out something else for your young kids who can’t ski all day. There is a small but adequate indoor play area if you have a nanny or adult hanging out with your little one in the lodge. Alpine takes the safety of children very seriously and gives each child a Falk GPS tracking device so that your child will never go missing. Trekaroo families like Alpine because the prices are just a little lower but the ski school program is well run.
Related:
Ski Resort with the Best On-Site Childcare – Minor’s Camp at Northstar-at-Tahoe
There are just a handful of ski resorts at Lake Tahoe that offer on-site child care. Trekaroo families were very impressed with the childcare at Northstar-at-Tahoe called Minor’s Camp which accepts children ages 2 to 6 years old. Located at the golf course base, the large and spacious facility is cheerful and filled with fun activities. Your child will perk up the moment you enter. This is a CA state licensed facility with a low adult to child ratio of 1:5. The set up and staff were so welcoming that even little ones who usually have difficulty separating felt very comfortable at Minor’s Camp. And did I mention the big bonus? Parents get one free adult lift ticket when you book your child for a full day at Minor’s Camp? What a deal!
If you have little ones younger than 2, the only ski resort that offers childcare from 2 months and up is Heavenly Ski Resort which also has an excellent day care.
Related:
- Reviews of Northstar-at-Tahoe Ski Resort (overall)
- Reviews of the Condos at Northstar-a-Tahoe
- Reviews of Ski School at Northstar-a-Tahoe
- Reviews of Tubing at Northstar-at-Tahoe
- Reviews of Cross Country Skiing at Northstar-at-Tahoe
Best Place to Teach Kids to Ski Yourself – Soda Springs
If you are bent on teaching your child to ski yourself, you might consider a visit to Soda Springs. Their prices are unbeatable and there is a area called “Planet Kids” that has small bunny slopes equipped with a magic carpet where parents can work on “pizzas” and “french fries” with their wee ones. It sure beats hiking up your child between each little run. For just $25, you can enter planet kids (includes ski or snowboard rental). If they get bored of skiing, they can ride down the small tubing hill or ride the tube carousel. It’s a little chaotic at planet kids, but is about the only ski resort that the do-it-yourself parent can benefit from the use of a magic carpet.
Related:
Best Ski and Snowboard Season Pass Deal for 2010/2011 – Northstar/Heavenly Season Pass
With Vail Resort’s recent purchase of Northstar Ski Resort, the Heavenly/Northstar Season Pass is the hottest ticket in town. For just $379/adult, $199/teen (13-18), $109/child (5-12), you can ski or board at Heavenly, Northstar, or Sierra-at-Tahoe for the 2010-2011 season. There is no better season pass deal in Lake Tahoe.
Compare this to season passes at other ski resorts with similar privileges and it’s a no brainer!
- Squaw: $999/adult
- Kirkwood: $569/adult
- Alpine Meadows: $999/adult
- Sugar Bowl: $399/adult
Other Lake Tahoe Related Resources for families:
- Where to Go Sledding and Tubing In Lake Tahoe
- Activities for Kids in Lake Tahoe
- Kid-friendly Hotels in Lake Tahoe
- Reviews of Sierra-a-Tahoe – Wild Mountain Ski and Snowboard School
- Reviews of Sugarbowl Ski Area with Kids
- Reviews Kirkwood Mountain with Kids
- Reviews of Homewood Mountain with Kids
LiLing Pang is a contributing writer for Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | CO | DC | FL | HI | IL | MA | NC | NY | OR | PA | TN | TX | VA | WA
Where to settle the family while hanging out in Dallas is always a tough choice. The reviews are in and families on Trekaroo have spoken. These are family favorites for hotels when in Dallas.
Best Hotel for Families - Hotel Palomar
Located in downtown Dallas a block away from the Mockingbird Station, the Hotel Palomar is great for families without having to spend a fortune. Clean, modern with a boutique-hotel feel, the kids will love the pool and Kimpton Kids welcome packages.
For more reviews on Hotel Palomar.
>> Rates start at $184/night.
Sweet Suite-Hotels
When traveling with kids, who doesn’t want a second room to hang out in when the kiddos go to bed. Families love suite-hotels and many of the suite hotels in Dallas stand at the top of the list as family favorites. The locations of these hotels away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, but great value for money (plus free parking).
Hyatt Summerfield Suites Dallas / Lincoln Park
Complimentary breakfast, outdoor pool, and complimentary airport shuttle are just some of the benefits of staying at the Hyatt Summerfield Suites, an all-suite hotel perfect for families. The location provides easy access to the main highway and the staff is great to families. For more reviews on the Hyatt Summerfield Suites Dallas / Lincoln Park.
Homewood Suites in Park Central
Homewood Suites in Dallas’ Park Central area is an all-suite hotel that was recently renovated. Complimentary breakfast every morning, complimentary dinner Monday through Thursday, an indoor pool, and fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher if you want to save a bit more money on food. For more reviews on Homewood Suites in Park Central.
For more hotels in Dallas, TX Hotels from $39!
Other Dallas articles
- What to Do in Dallas
For more ideas on things to do and where to stay with the family, check out these other destinations in Texas: Houston and the Gulf Coast, San Antonio, and Austin.
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Esther Lee is a contributing writer for Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | CO | DC | FL | HI | IL | MA | NC | NY | OR | PA | TN | TX | VA | WA
Texas may be the Lone Star State, but these activities in Dallas-Forth Worth defy this brand with the best of the best reviews from Trekaroo parents. From the vast and fascinating Dallas World Aquarium to the unique Sixth Floor Museum, there are adventure to be had in Dallas and Trekaroo parents are pointing the way. Take a look at their top picks:
#1 Voted Activity and the Best Place for Kids to Explore the Aquatic World: Dallas World Aquarium
One step into the doors at Dallas World Aquarium and you will see why it’s a favorite of Trekaroo parents. ”The layout is fantastic and the exhibits are great,” says trekaroo parent startropics. It’s more than just good design, though; this aquarium knows how to capture a child’s interest: shark feedings! The aquarium also does a nice job showcasing the less sensational, but equally interesting diversity of aquatic life with manatees, crocodiles and otters; enough to intrigue any youngster for at least a few hours. Carmencrano is a repeat visitor who loves the interactive aspects of the aquarium. ”The last time we went my youngest to go feed some of the birds and we atually stood underneath a sloth hanging from the lowlying branch above,” she said. What more could a child ask for than a close encounter of the sloth kind?
Photo Credit: flickr/texas_mustang
The Best Area for Kids to Explore Nature: Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
The Arboretum may not be filled with play structures or Jedi knights, but parents will be surprised at how the complexities of nature captivate their child’s eager minds, at least for the first hour or two. Take startropic’s child: “My 3 year old especially loves trying to find little bugs among the plants.” This is one of those places that is enchanting to parents and children alike and will turn the imaginative engine that makes a kid’s world go ’round. The arboretum is like a giant canvas for fun. Trekaroo parent mistry enjoys taking the whole family to the Arboretum for family picnics among the flowers, while bob’s kids enjoy exploring the playhouses. The imagination is the only limit to fun at the Dallas Arboretum.
Photo Credit: thelees3
The Most Exciting Place for Kids to Investigate and Play: The Museum of Nature and Science
Aspiring paleontologists will demand their pocket vest to excavate fossils underneath a looming T-Rex. ”At the dinosaur exhibit there was a sandy area where the kids could dig for “fossils”. That lasted for almost an hour of fun!” said Trekaroo mom cdom. When your kids are done with the Jurassic era, they can move onto the molecular discoveries of Watson’s and Crick’s era and explore the genetic code in the DNA exhibit. Womanofsalt said this was her son’s favorite. When nucleic acids have lost their allure, move on to the planetarium and imagine the possibility of life on the exoplanets beyond our solar system. It’s all in a day’s play at the Museum of Nature and Science.
Photo Credit: Museum of Nature and Science
The Most Interesting Museum for [Older] Kids: Sixth Floor Museum
Dallas has the unfortunate legacy of being the site where John F. Kennedy was tragically assassinated. The Sixth Floor Museum catalogues the history surrounding this event in the area where Lee Harvey Oswald fired his shots. The material of this museum is not well-suited for the youngsters, but Trekaroo parent Alatkins recommends it as an educational and intriguing outing for the young student of US history. Carol assures us the museum was “obviously not fun” for her one year old, but found it very interesting and recommends it for an apt audience. The museum is not all gloom, it also focuses on the life and story of America’s most talked about political family.
Photo Credit: Sixth Floor Museum
The Best Place to Roll Through Train History: The Museum of the American Railroad
It’s a little known fact that the largest number of subscriptions to “Train Aficionados” comes from the 2-10 year-old demographic. Just take a visit to the Museum of the American Railroad and watch your youngsters dive into the old locomotives and hang on every word of the knowledgeable staff. Trekaroo parent adf attended a birthday party at this museum and found a jewel of the Dallas children’s scence. ”Very interesting to see the locomotives,” she says. It’s in a great downtown location so there are plenty of other adventures to be found nearby for your the steam engines in your family with a bottomless tender car.
Photo Credit: Museum of the American Railroad
Related Articles:
- Travel Guide to Vacationing in Dallas as a Family
- Activities for Kids in Dallas
- Kid-friendly hotels in Dallas
- Top Discounts and Coupons for the Texas State Fair
- Mother Daughter Bonding at Port Aransas, Texas
- 5 Fantastic San Antonio Day Trips for Families
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Stephen Wanta is a contributing author on Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | CO | DC | FL | HI | IL | MA | NC | NY | OR | PA | TN | TX | VA | WA
My husband grew up in Toronto and I’ve been amazed by the endless number of activities he comes up with to entertain our 3-year old toddler son and his 3, 5 and 8-year old nephews. Here are our favorites when visiting Toronto with kids under the age of 8.
Canada’s Largest Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum has 4 floors and 70+ galleries where kids can learn about natural history and world cultures. You can easily spend a full day here, but the stuff your kids care about is primarily located on Level 2. There you can find some Jurassic friends in the Age of Dinosaurs gallery, excavate a dino bone in the Interactive Discovery Gallery, and touch a skull in the Hands-On Biodiversity Gallery.
Got a toddler? Head over to Franklin’s World for games and activities that are perfect for busy toddlers.
For the Fearless
Towering 1815 ft in the air, the CN Tower is the first and only landmark my 3-year old son can recognize in Toronto. Although the view from anywhere is fairly impressive, the view from the inside is certainly memorable.
Don’t forget your camera because you’ll want a similar shot of the kids standing, jumping or sleeping on the Glass Floor Observation Deck as they watch the city buzz busily below.
Photo by Flickr user shadowarmy75.
Best Hands-on Fun
The Ontario Science Centre is an enormous institution filled with 9 large exhibition halls for kids to learn about different eco-systems, insects, physics, technology and more.
Kids under 8 will love the specially designed Kidspark zone where little hands and feet make music, build a house and more. Be sure to check their regularly schedules programs where OSC staff help to teach kids can learn about electricity and more.
Best Day Trip
Visiting Toronto Island Park is one of my favorite excursions with the kids. Where else do you get a ferry ride with an amazing view of the Toronto skyline, Centreville Amusement Park (30 rides that are perfect for the 8 and under crowd), beaches, and signs that say “Please walk on the grass.”
Kid-friendly? You bet.
Best Amusement Park
Located right on the shore of Lake Ontario, Ontario Place is guaranteed fun for the family. All the rides and attractions are geared for kids aged 2-10. My 3-year old son had such a blast with the bumper boats, driving his own car and riding the mini Ferris wheel. The flume and water park are great for those torrid summer days. My personal favorite, the Atom Blaster arena where you can shot foam balls at your loved ones.
Best Farm for Kids
The Riverdale Farm is smack-dab in the middle of the city with 7.5 acres of paths, gardens and barns for the kids to explore. Highlights are the butterfly-herb-flower-vegetable gardens and all of Old McDonald’s farm animals that your little ones love to sing about.
Best Annual Event for Families
If you’re here in March or early April, bring the kids to the Kortright Centre for Conservation for the Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival. Activities include pony rides, a petting zoo, horse-drawn wagon rides, sap samplings and maple syrup demonstrations. On the weekends and during March break, check the schedule for special performances and events for the kids like animal shows and live music. Of course, there will be plenty of pancakes and maple syrup to sample.
Related articles on traveling to Toronto:
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Esther Lee is co-founder and CEO of Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | CO | DC | FL | HI | IL | MA | NC | NY | PA | TN | TX | VA | WA
The original inhabitants of the Yosemite Valley called the place Ahwahnee, which translates to something like “large mouth”. The area was said to resemble a gaping bear’s mouth, but it is also an apt description of the effect this rugged and vast landscape has on visitors of all ages. It’s a stunning view that makes the soul feel big and the every body seem small and allows a child’s imagination to fly wild in the high sky of the Sierras. Trekaroo parents attest to the majestic qualities of this national park and through their contributions they have given us a list of the top spots to visit while in Yosemite with the youngsters:
The Pinnacle of Wonder for Kids in Yosemite: Glacier Point
There’s something about perspective that changes things and at Glacier Point it’s all about perspective. The spectacular view from the top may have your child forgetting all about their Nintendo Wii bowling score for at least a few minutes while they contemplate the grandeur of the world around. Half Dome looms in the distance, allowing parents to briefly appreciate not having to trek 14 miles up that rock with the youngins. As trekaroo parent Lydie says “[Glacier Point is a] beautiful view without having to hike for hours.” However, if hiking is part of your plan, Trekaroo mom Sarah assures us “there are hikes that start and end here.” Whether hiking or driving to the top of this Yosemite landmark, Trekaroo parents rank this as one of the best places to visit with their kids. Shinyhappypeople has this advice: “If it’s your first trip to Yosemite and you don’t have much time, put Glacier Point at the top of your “must see” list. You won’t regret it.”
Best Place for a Kid-Friendly Yosemite Education: Yosemite Valley Visitor’s Center
The Yosemite Valley Visitor’s Center is frequented by many a mom and dad at the start of their pursuit of the great outdoors. It’s a great place to begin with plenty of maps and advice to go around. “If you aren’t an experienced camping/hiking/walking the trails family, you should stop in at the visitor’s center. You’ll find maps and hopefully a park employee to answer any questions,” says familiarycerz. Besides gaining your bearings, the Visitor’s Center offers other educational activities for kids. Trekaroo mom arial confirms that this is a great way to start your child’s Yosemite adventure: “Not only can you learn about the surroundings and environment, but you can also watch a great free video that is full of history.” With so much to see and do, first time visitors will especially benefit from the resources at the Visitor’s Center and find the most enjoyable way to explore.
Photo Credit: uSchmarol
The Most Classic Yosemite Journey for Kids: Yosemite Falls
It’s on the postcards and in the films, but there’s nothing quite like watching massive amounts of water fall a few thousand feet. It’s quite a step up from the bathtub faucet. Trekaroo parent doubleadventure reminds us that this aquatic wonder truly is for everyone, “Even the tiniest munchkins and those who are disabled can get up close and personal with the Lower Falls”. Many a youngster (including this author at the ripe age of 7) has made the trek up this towering fall. Trekaroo user Arial also waxes nostalgic about her childhood journeys up the Falls and gives the recommendation of packing a good hearty lunch for the trek. Whatever level of physical exertion you choose, the kids will no doubt be awed by the sight and sound of the three falls the make up this beautiful trademark of Yosemite.
Photo Credit: bunny_mama
The Best Place for Kids to see their Parents Looking Up: Mariposa Grove
In Mariposa Grove the trees are nearly as tall as your child’s imagination. “There are amazing trees here, really big ones, that you can walk through,” says morrobaykim about this precious forest. HDinSoCal enjoyed the walk to “Grizzly Tree” with the family, “This tree was the best tree worth seeing.” Amongst these cousins of the Redwoods, there are many ways to meander through the towering, millenniums-old trees by foot or by guided tour, whichever suits your motion fancy. Trekaroo parents warn, however, that the parking lot is frequently full, especially in the summer.
Photo Credit: flickr/Jared Hawkins
The Best Place for Kids to Reflect on Life’s Big Questions: Mirror Lake
Even mountains can have a bit of vanity, which is why Mirror Lake rests below the towering façade of Half Dome. There are adventures to be found along the trail, such as TravelPang’s see-saw discovery. And the destination itself is a spectacular way to relax the afternoon away with a packed lunch and swimming trunks. The hike is accommodating as maimai19 puts it, it’s a “nice hike for anyone, young and old.” The trail is stroller accessible for those who can’t quite carry all their own weight yet. Trekaroo mom, Arial, recommends this place for all-comers: “Whether you get here by biking, hiking, bus, car, or horse this is a great place for all to visit.”
Photo Credit: Giles Douglas
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Related Articles:
- For more activities in Yosemite for Kids
- Kid-friendly lodging in Yosemite National Park
- Best Hikes for Tykes in Yosemite National Park
- 15 Family Friendly National Park Adventures
- National Park Junior Ranger Program
- 5 National Monuments Your Family Should Visit
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Stephen Wanta is a contributing author on Trekaroo – a reviews site dedicated to exploring and traveling with kids.
Travel with kids to: CA | CO | DC | FL | HI | IL | MA | NC | NY | PA | TN | TX | VA | WA
